Shop Like A Local in Belleville

Story by Charlotte Buckle, Posted on Aug 1st, 2018

Belleville has been working tirelessly to bring life back into the heart of this celebrated city; with a three-phase improvement plan almost complete, two downtown condominium developments in the works and a 10-year vision for a waterfront ‘makeover’, Belleville is back, and its future is definitely bright.

In the year and a half that I have lived in the Quinte region, I have been inspired by the City of Belleville’s constant drive to improve and stand out. It is a city where being your unique self thrives and brings success—just take a walk down Front Street and you will see what I mean! The constant changes happening in the area, especially the improvements being done downtown, allow for even the locals to be tourists in their own town.

At the heart of this downtown improvement project are the locally owned and operated shops that call these historic streets home. These champions are surviving economic change by staying true to what makes a small business thrive: a unique shopping experience with attentive customer service and one-of-a-kind merchandise.

They are more than just businesses—they represent the passion and entrepreneurial drive of our fellow community members. They are meeting spots to share a cup of coffee with a neighbour or re-connect with friends. Come along with me and take a closer look at the people and businesses that form the downtown community that makes up our beautiful city.

Shop Like A Local – Downtown Belleville

Thomas Estevez Design – A true hidden gem, Thomas Estevez Design is full of exceptional pieces. From personally chosen sterling silver and authentic stones to the remarkably realistic paintings done by one of the co-owners, Jesus Estevez, this store is everything but ordinary.

Boretski Gallery – If you are looking for pieces that no one else will have, Boretski Gallery is the place to go. Marina will greet you with a big smile and show you
around her amazing store. It’s full of incredible clothing and accessories from the early to mid-1900s, and pieces that Marina has refurbished to make them truly unique.

Kate’s Kitchen – A mix of modern and rustic, Kate’s Kitchen has something for everyone’s home. Along with a great variety of kitchen supplies, cookware and one-of-a-kind home décor, Kate’s is also home to provincially made goodies from Hogans’ Honey and Madawaska Coffee Co.

Scalliwag Toys – Toy stores are few and far between, but Belleville’s downtown is home to the perfect store for the young and the young at heart. Scalliwag Toys has unique toys, board games galore and hosts card-game nights featuring Dungeons & Dragons and Magic: The Gathering.

Pinnacle Music Studios – Belleville is full of musical talent and Pinnacle Music is the place to go for all of your musical needs. This store is a musician’s paradise: it has a broad selection of electric and acoustic guitars, lessons in just about every instrument (including vocals) and plenty of studio space.

Lafferty’s Crossings – After making the move from the Quinte Mall in 2017 after 45 years, owner Tom Lafferty saw the opportunities that his business could have in the downtown core. With decades of experience and a great clothing selection for men, it is no wonder that Lafferty’s has been such a successful business for so many years.

Stephen License Ltd. Bicycles & Hobby Supplies – Currently celebrating its 100th year, Stephen License Ltd. is a great example of a business that has stood the test of time. A fourth-generation business this shop has adapted to the community’s needs over the years and is the perfect spot for your biking, fishing and other hobby needs.